How to Sustain a Constitutional Democracy: The Legacy of Judge Gilbert S. Merritt This opinion essay memorializes the life and legacy of Judge Gilbert S. Merritt, Eli Merritt's father. Serving on the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals for 44 years, Judge Merritt believed that the success of American democracy is rooted not only in an intelligent Constitution and sound institutions but in an active citizenry imbued with a spirit of justice, truth, and self-sacrifice for the greater good. On the question of how to sustain a constitutional democracy, the judge counseled others to rouse the spirit of Washington, Madison, Churchill, FDR, Lincoln, and MLK, among other historical figures who were willing to give their lives and fortunes for our liberties. “Liberty and the democratic spirit,“ he often said, “must exist within the hearts of the people.” Judge Merritt believed these values must be handed down faithfully from one generation to the next because, without them, a democracy may be quickly lost.
Articles in The Tennessean
Articles in The Tennessean
Articles in The Tennessean
How to Sustain a Constitutional Democracy: The Legacy of Judge Gilbert S. Merritt This opinion essay memorializes the life and legacy of Judge Gilbert S. Merritt, Eli Merritt's father. Serving on the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals for 44 years, Judge Merritt believed that the success of American democracy is rooted not only in an intelligent Constitution and sound institutions but in an active citizenry imbued with a spirit of justice, truth, and self-sacrifice for the greater good. On the question of how to sustain a constitutional democracy, the judge counseled others to rouse the spirit of Washington, Madison, Churchill, FDR, Lincoln, and MLK, among other historical figures who were willing to give their lives and fortunes for our liberties. “Liberty and the democratic spirit,“ he often said, “must exist within the hearts of the people.” Judge Merritt believed these values must be handed down faithfully from one generation to the next because, without them, a democracy may be quickly lost.